What Herbal Treatments Can You Take For Sinuses?

Your sinuses are cavities, or air pockets, in the bones of your face and skull. Your sinuses are lined with mucous membranes that protect your body from various types of particulate matter and pathogens, including pollen, dust and microorganisms. Your sinus mucous membranes may become inflamed or swollen following bacterial or viral infections. Herbal treatments have historically been used in treating sinus-related problems, although you should always speak with your family doctor before using herbs.

Sinus-Related Illness

The most common cause of sinus-related problems is inflammation of your sinuses -- a condition known as sinusitis. When your sinuses and nasal openings become inflamed, you may develop sinus obstruction, which in turn leads to the accumulation of mucus, bacterial overgrowth and eventually infection. Aching pain and pressure are among the most commonly experienced symptoms of this condition, and your sinus-related discomfort may increase with postural changes, such as leaning forward. Nasal discharge, in combination with your other symptoms, may be indicative of bacterial sinusitis.

Useful Herbal Treatments

Several useful herbal remedies have traditionally been used in treating sinus problems, although not all these herbs may have been subjected to rigorous clinical studies using contemporary research methods. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists the following herbs as potential remedies in the treatment of your sinus problems: barberry, bromelain, echinacea, ephedra, eucalyptus and goldenseal. Ephedra, also known as ma huang, has been banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, due to its potential negative health effects if used inappropriately.

A Commonly Used Remedy

Goldenseal is a commonly used herbal remedy in the treatment of sinus problems, including sinusitis. Naturopathic physician and master herbalist William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," states that goldenseal possesses numerous health actions, including antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial and expectorant action, which make goldenseal an ideal herb in the treating of sinus-related conditions. Goldenseal has historically been used in treating sinusitis, otitis media and thrush. Wild goldenseal is currently endangered due to overharvesting.

Considerations

If left untreated, sinus-related problems may lead to significant health problems, including facial cellulitis; peri-orbital cellulitis, or inflammation of the tissue around your eye; and, in rare cases, infection of your nearby bone. If you develop sinus-related problems, visit your primary care provider as soon as possible for an evaluation and appropriate treatment. Do not use herbal remedies in place of other therapies suggested by your physician.